New Palestinian gov't to prepare for polls -- spokesman

(MENAFN - Kuwait News Agency (KUNA)) The new Palestinian government, expected to swear in on Monday, would take charge of preparing for parliamentary elections in six months, said the Presidential spokesman on Sunday.
Nabil Abu Rudainah, in a statement, confirmed the new cabinet would include independent figures and would adhere to President Mahmoud Abbas' manifesto, aimed at establishing an independent Palestinian state with Jerusalem as its capital.
The spokesman said the president bids to iron out differnces among the Palestinian factions, namely Hamas and Fatah, have drawn much acclaim from various corners of the world.
He was apparently reacting to remarks, made by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, during a cabinet session, charging that the new Palestinian government would "boost terrorism." Tel Aviv has slammed President Abbas for reconciling with the Islamic Movement Hamas.
On Saturday, the Palestinian President warned Israel against any retaliatory action for the forecast formation of a Palestinian national unity government. "The Israelis have notified us that they intend to boycott us immediately once we have formed the national unity cabinet," said Abbas.
The new government is expected to group 15-17 ministers.
Hamas and Fatah have recently mended fences following a long period of bitter ties, amid a stalemate in the peace talks with Israel.